5 reasons Spring in Edmonton is amazing

16/05/2016 10:01

A big myth about Edmonton is that it’s always cold, but that’s not true! Edmonton, like most Canadian cities, gets four seasons and by March or April, average temperatures can be around 15 degrees C or 60 F. By May, the days are also longer, with the sun setting around 9 pm, so it’s a great time of year to get outside and explore the city.

Here’s 5 reasons Spring in Edmonton is amazing!

Eating outdoors and on patios

Once the weather gets warmer, a lot of Edmonton restaurants open outdoor eating areas and food trucks (mobile restaurants) start appearing. There’s always a relaxed atmosphere on Whyte Avenue, which is walking distance from UAlberta and has plenty of restaurants to choose from. Food trucks will park all over the city, but tend to come to central areas more often. Watch out for them and grab some good food on the go!

Shopping at outdoor markets

In late spring some of Edmonton’s most popular markets move outdoors. Vendors set up tents and sell things like fresh vegetables, flowers, clothes and hand-crafted goods. The atmosphere is generally very relaxed, so it can be fun just walking around, even if you don’t want to buy anything!

Having fun at a board game cafe

Ok, so this option isn’t exclusive to Spring time, but if it’s one Edmonton's few rainy days this is a great indoor activity! Get some of your UAlberta friends together and book a table at a boardgame cafe. Here you can have a yummy meal and there’s over 500 board games to choose from! Plus, there’s one just a few minutes from our North Campus.

Taking a ride on the high-level bridge streetcar

Learn about the history of Edmonton, while taking a scenic train ride across Edmonton’s high level bridge. This train line became famous for being one of the highest river crossings by streetcar in the world, sitting about 50m (164 feet) above the river. Take in panoramic views of the city and river valley while experiencing what life was like in the early 1900s! This train operates from May-October.

Seeing flowers bloom all over the city

Edmonton is an incredibly green city. We have a lot of trees, flowers and public parks. This means walking around the city in Spring time can be a beautiful activity in itself. It also smells fantastic! Yes, you heard us right! There are so many plants in bloom and flowering trees, that the air is literally filled with wonderful aromas at this time of year.